Australian kidnapped in Philippines seen on video

MANILA, Philippines — An Australian man held hostage by militants in the southern Philippines for more than a year has appeared in a video as proof that he is alive.

Warren Richard Rodwell said on the video that he is being held in isolation. He said he understands there are negotiations for his release under way but added, “I personally hold no hope at all for being released.”

ADVERTISEMENT

He said he was kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf, a notorious al-Qaida-linked group.

Philippine intelligence officials said Wednesday that they believe the video, which has been circulated on YouTube, is authentic.

Rodwell appeared thinner than in a previous video posted in January. He held a copy of a local newspaper dated Dec. 15 and said the recording was made the following day.